Venice City Guide

Explore the enchanting city of Venice with our comprehensive guide. Navigate the winding canals, historic palazzos, and iconic landmarks such as St. Mark's Basilica and the Rialto Bridge. Discover Venice's rich cultural heritage, vibrant arts scene, and delectable cuisine, ensuring an unforgettable experience in this unique floating city.

HOW TO REACH

Reaching Venice is straightforward, with several options available depending on your starting point:

By Air:
Venice Marco Polo Airport: Located about 13 kilometers from the city center, it handles both domestic and international flights. From the airport, you can take a water taxi, Alilaguna water bus, or land bus to reach Venice.
Treviso Airport: Situated about 40 kilometers from Venice, it primarily serves budget airlines. You can take a shuttle bus from the airport to Venice.
By Train:
Santa Lucia Train Station: Venice's main train station is well-connected to major Italian cities like Rome, Milan, and Florence via high-speed trains. Regional trains also serve the station, connecting Venice to nearby towns.
By Car:
Parking: Cars are not allowed in Venice itself. You can park in designated parking areas like Piazzale Roma or Tronchetto, and then take a vaporetto (water bus) or walk into the city.
By Bus:
Long-Distance Buses: Companies like FlixBus offer services to Venice from various European cities. Buses usually stop at Piazzale Roma, from where you can easily access the city.
By Boat:
Cruise Ships: Venice is a popular port for cruise ships, which dock at the Venice Cruise Terminal. From there, you can take a water taxi or shuttle to the city center.
Ferries: Ferries from other parts of Italy and nearby countries arrive at the Venice Ferry Terminal.

ADMISSION

Venice Entrance Fees and Where to Buy Them
Starting April 25, 2024, Venice has introduced a €5 entry fee for day-trippers to help manage overtourism and preserve the city's historic charm. This fee applies to visitors entering the historic center of Venice between 8:30 AM and 4:00 PM on specific dates, primarily during peak tourist seasons. Here’s everything you need to know about the entry fee and where to buy it.
Who Needs to Pay the Entry Fee?
The €5 entry fee is required for day visitors who do not stay overnight in Venice. Exemptions include:
Residents of Venice and the wider Veneto region
Commuters and people coming for work or volunteering
Students enrolled in Venice's universities
Athletes visiting for sports events
Minors under the age of 14
Guests staying overnight in Venice hotels (though they must still register online)
How to Purchase the Entry Fee
Online Registration:
Visit the Official Portal: The primary way to purchase the entry fee is through the official website Venezia Unica.
Select Your Date: Choose the date of your visit and the number of people in your party.
Enter Details: Provide the names of the adult travelers who need to pay the fee.
Payment: Complete the payment process online.
Receive QR Code: After payment, you will receive a QR code via email. This code serves as proof of payment and must be shown to authorities if asked.
On-Site Purchase:
If you arrive in Venice without having paid the fee, you can still purchase it on-site:
At Major Entry Points: You can pay at kiosks located at key entry points, such as Venezia Santa Lucia train station, Piazzale Roma, and Tronchetto bus terminals.
Assistance from Stewards: Stewards wearing white bibs with the city's logo will assist you in purchasing the ticket online and downloading the QR code. If you don't have a smartphone, you can pay at water taxi stations or in tabacchi shops.
Enforcement and Fines
Authorities will conduct random checks at various access points, including the airport, train and bus stations, and major vaporetti (water bus) stops. If you are found without a QR code, you may be fined between €50 and €300.
Exemptions for Overnight Guests
If you are staying overnight in Venice, you are exempt from the entry fee but must still register online to receive an exemption QR code. This can be done on the same Venezia Unica portal:
Select “Exemptions”: Choose the option for guests staying in accommodation within the Municipality of Venice.
Enter Your Details: Provide your name, date of birth, and the details of your accommodation.
Verification: You may need to verify your phone number by making a call to a local number in Venice.
Receive QR Code: Download or receive your exemption QR code via email.
Additional Tips
Book in Advance: To avoid long lines and ensure a smooth entry, it’s recommended to book your entry fee online before arriving in Venice.
Check Dates: The entry fee is only required on specific peak dates, so make sure to check the official website for the exact dates during your visit.
Stay Informed: Keep an eye on updates from the Venice city council, as the entry fee system is a pilot program and may undergo changes.
By following these steps, you can ensure a hassle-free visit to Venice while contributing to the city's efforts to manage tourism sustainably. Enjoy your trip to this beautiful and historic city!